“Sonatina No. 1” (2006) is in three movements. The opening “Allegro moderato” begins with a theme reminiscent of the music of Paul Hindemith but soon develops it alongside several contrasting ideas. The second movement has the character of a lyric sarabande. The third movement is subtitled “Die Carillon von St. Joseph” and is one of Willscher’s many pieces evoking the bells of specific places: in this case it is his own church of St. Joseph-Wandsbek.

Andreas Willscher (b. 1955) studied composition, theory, and organ in Hamburg. In 1971 he was appointed organist of the St. Francis Church in Hamburg and in 2000 at the church of St. Joseph-Wandsbek. In addition, he has been keyboardist for several jazz and rock ensembles. Willscher has received many awards and commissions for his compositions, which range widely in form: from symphonic music and oratorios to cabaret and rock scores. His organ style blends elements of the traditional repertoire with contemporary jazz and pop influences.